THE HOST STAND AT RUKA
Carved from one gargantuan, labyrinthine piece of teak root brought over from Indonesia, it’s but one of the many exotic and otherworldly details in Ruka’s multilayered landscape. But it’s the one that reminds us that diners aren’t the only ones that make an entrance at a restaurant. 505 Washington St., 617.266.0102, rukarestobar.com
HANDPAINTED MURALS AT CITRUS & SALT
Who knew coastal Mexican cuisine required glamour and out-and-out artistry? Erica Diskin did, apparently. She designed chef-owner Jason Santos’ hot spot, and set the whole thing ablaze with chandeliers dripping violet diamond light, botanicals painted across the floors and bewitching wall murals. 142 Berkeley St., 833.324.8787, citrusandsaltboston.com
THE GREENS AT NAHITA
Ever wish you could eat lunch in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but just couldn’t get there by noon? The tastefully verdant vibe in Nahita’s main dining room will make you happy you never bothered to book a flight. 100 Arlington St., Back Bay, Boston, 617.457.8130, nahitarestaurant.com
Photography by: RUKA PHOTO BY MELISSA OSTROW; NAHITA PHOTO COURTESY OF NAHITA; CITRUS & SALT PHOTO BY MIKE DISKIN;
